Sheri Trine named 'woman of distinction'

She gives because 'it feels right'

 

ANGOLA — Trine University honored Sheri Trine of Angola with its Woman of Distinction Award at its 15th annual Touchstone dinner Thursday night in the Ketner Sports Center.

The event recognizes donors and honors alumni for their contributions of time, service, management and resources to the school.

Before revealing that she won the award, university president Earl D. Brooks II described Trine as “indelible” and a “rich reservoir of service.” As Brooks ended his speech, the lights dimmed and a video of pictures of Trine throughout the years began to play. When the lights came up, the 200-person crowd gave her a standing ovation.

“She says they give … because it feels right,” Brooks said upon presenting the award. She also tells others, “The size of the gift is not important; what matters is that one participates in the community.”

Trine’s gifts include furnishing and decorating all residence halls on campus, the Trine Welcome Center in Forman Hill, the Trine guest cottage and the president’s home and office.

She also has played an important role in improving the school’s Fred Zollner Athletic Stadium, the University Center, the Keith Busse/Steel Dynamics Athletic and Recreation Center and the C.W. Sponsel Administration Center.

She also is involved locally as a charter member of the Steuben County Community Foundation, a benefactor of the Breeden YMCA and a 20-year member of the Steuben County Humane Society. She helped start the Cameron Hospital Benefit Ball, which has generated more than $600,000 for the purchase of needed hospital equipment for the past 25 years.

“It’s virtually impossible to keep up with you,” Brooks said with a smile.

Trine also started the university’s Scholarship Gala, which has raised more than $500,000 to date.

“Giving is contagious, and we want others to see how much it matters,” Trine said.

She thanked the university for the recognition and said she has made many friends by being involved with the school. She and her husband, Ralph, have lived in the Angola area for 27 years and have hired multiple university graduates to work at their company, Vestil Manufacturing Corp., which produces dock equipment, ergonomic solutions and material handing equipment.

“This university has … helped us grow, and we will be forever grateful,” Trine said. “We have been so blessed.”